It’s hard not to overuse the word ‘icon’ when talking about watches, especially when there are so many important designs that have shaped the history of horology. But one watch we can quite comfortably call iconic is the Omega Speedmaster Professional.
The Speedmaster was originally launched in 1957 and it was first and foremost designed as a racing watch. But as we all know, its journey took a turn when it became the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. It’s time on Buzz Aldrin’s wrist catapulted the Omega Speedmaster into the annals of space exploration and in turn earned it the moniker “Moonwatch”.
Omega Speedmaster on WatchGecko Vintage Tropical Style FKM Rubber Watch Strap - Black - Credit WatchGecko.
So, when it comes to contemplating the optimal strap pairing for such an iconic timepiece, there are several compelling choices to pick from. We’ve already argued the case of the nylon strap for the Omega Speedmaster Professional and picked 5 of our favourites, but another style we think works all too well is the rubber strap.
Rubber straps not only align with the watch’s sporty origins, but they also introduce a touch of modernity to the vintage-inspired design. Beyond aesthetics, rubber straps also contribute significantly to the watch's wearability. Rubber is comfortable, lightweight, durable and water resistant, allowing the Speedmaster to wear effortlessly throughout the day, suiting everything from formal occasions to active pursuits and those everyday 9-5 stints.
To help you navigate through the many rubber watch bands we offer here at Watch Gecko, we’ve handpicked five references we think are the perfect match for the Omega Speedmaster Professional.
Watch Gecko Vintage Tropical Style FKM Rubber Watch Strap in Black
A rubber strap with a retro personality to work in line with the Omega Speedmaster’s own vintage edge is our Watch Gecko Vintage Tropical Style FKM Rubber strap. This design is inspired by the golden age of diving watches and pays homage to 1960’s tropic straps that were popular during the same era the Speedmaster made its debut. It delivers a period accurate cross hatch pattern across the high-tech FKM rubber, a tapered tail and classic style keepers. We’ve also included quick release spring bars so swapping out this rubber strap for another is made super easy.
Watch Gecko 400 MKII Italian Rubber Divers Watch Strap in Black
WatchGecko 400 (MKII) Italian Rubber Divers Watch Strap - Orange - Brushed Buckle
WatchGecko 400 (MKII) Italian Rubber Divers Watch Strap - Navy Blue - Brushed Buckle
WatchGecko 400 (MKII) Italian Rubber Divers Watch Strap - Capri Sea - Brushed Buckle
For more of a contemporary look, we recommend our Watch Gecko 400 MKII Italian Rubber Divers watch strap. This replacement watch band has been manufactured in partnership with strap experts Bonetto Cinturini to ensure high levels of comfort, UV resistance, water resistance, salt water resistance and durability. It utilises a modern carbon fibre-like pattern and clever multi-adjustment sizing technology in the form of a flip lock clasp which allows you to make minute changes to the strap’s length at a whim.
British Military Watch Strap 328 Marine Tactical in White
There’s no denying the Omega Speedmaster Professional looks incredibly good on a black strap; it matches the design’s black ceramic tachymeter bezel and chronograph dial after all. That said, sometimes it’s fun to play around with other strap colours. This not only brings further attention to the watch when it’s on your wrist but can help you adapt the timepiece to suit certain outfits or events. A really good colour for this is white and our British Military 328 Marine Tactical watch strap is available in exactly that. This is another design made in partnership with Bonetto Cinturini, crafted from Italian rubber with narrow grooved detailing and stainless steel keepers and buckle. It’s also vanilla scented for a fun touch.
ZULUDIVER Endurance Rubber Watch Strap in Northwest Blue
As one of our dressier rubber straps, the ZULUDIVER Endurance Rubber watch band in blue is ideal for someone looking for the flexibility and durability of rubber but the formal elegance of leather. The front side of the band is crafted from precision-cut leather for a sophisticated look but the sidewalls and back are moulded from durable FKM rubber. It’s the best of both worlds. Even the pin holes feature rubber rings to preserve their form after several re-fastenings and frequent wear. The strap is completed by a brushed steel clasp and quick-release spring bars.
ZULUDIVER Mayday Sailcloth Padded Divers Watch Strap with Grey Stitching
Finally, we can’t leave without mentioning our popular ZULUDIVER Mayday Sailcloth Padded Divers watch strap. This is another great strap for those wanting the smarter looks of leather but the functionality of rubber. The design is made from PVC rubber and cleverly printed with a sailcloth pattern to give it its dressier look. It’s padded for extra comfort and arrives with quick-release spring bars for easy strap swapping.
